Test of membrane bioreactor for waste water treatment in a petrochemical complex

Membrane bioreactor (MBR) used in water and waste water treatment is a developing technique for water pollution control and water reuse. This paper describes a membrane-bioreactor for treatment of waste water in a petrochemical complex. The experimental MBR was a lab scale one composed of an activated sludge bioreactor unit and an ultrafiltration membrane unit. The relationship of COD removal with MLSS and HRT in this MBR was studied. The effects of crossflow velocity, backwash interval and volume of flush liquid on the flux were discussed. The results showed that average removal of COD, oil, SS and turbidity in petrochemical waste water by the MBR was 91%, 86%, 92% and 99% respectively. The average removal of NH₃-N and total phosphorous was 85% and 82%. A coefficient of COD removal, k, was 0.017-0.080 L/(mg.d). The membrane flux maintained higher than 60 L/hm2 bar for 34 days without chemical cleaning when the velocity of crossflow was 3.5-3.9 m/s and the backwash interval was 30 minutes and backwash duration at 20 seconds. The results indicated that it is feasible for MBR technology to be used in petrochemical waste water treatment. The treated water could be considered as a source used to make up water for industrial cooling system or to be reused for other purposes.